A memorial was held for the late actress and civil rights activist Ruby Dee Saturday in Morningside Heights.
Hundreds packed into Manhattan’s Riverside Church to honor Dee, who was a pioneering star of stage and screen whose career spanned more than seven decades.
The service featured songs, poetry and remembrances from about a dozen family members.
In a letter read by former Mayor David Dinkins, the President and First Lady Michelle Obama recalled her work for the civil rights movement with her husband, the late actor Ossie Davis.
“Ruby’s bold vision for a fairer society was evident in every aspect of her life and she helped throw open the doors of opportunity. While she will be missed across the country and around the world, we trust you take comfort in knowing her work will continue to inspire for years to come,” Dinkins read.
The service also included a video eulogy delivered by performer and activist Harry Belafonte.
Ruby Dee was raised in Harlem and got her start with American Negro Theater after graduating from Hunter High School and Hunter College. She skyrocketed to fame after appearing in 1961′s “A Raisin in the Sun.”
She later became the second oldest actor to receive an Oscar nomination for best supporting actress for her role in “American Gangster,” at the age of 83.
Ruby Dee died at her home in New Rochelle back in June. She was 91 years old.
Check back for highlights of the service.
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via Great Local News: New York http://ift.tt/1iZiLP1
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